928-776-0239 
Dr. Jason C. Campbell offers training in treating acid erosion at Advanced Prosthetics Institute. Acid erosion, also called tooth erosion or dental erosion, occurs when tooth enamel is worn away by highly concentrated sources of acid. To learn more about how to treat acid erosion, and to register for courses at our institute, please contact us at 928-776-0239.
While some sources of acid erosion can be found in every day fruits, vegetables, and everyday substances like soda and wine, most cases of acid erosion are caused by excessive stomach acids that are regurgitated into the oral cavity or by high levels of acidity in the saliva. Acid erosion can also be caused by certain medications, including aspirin and antihistamines. Other contributing factors to acid erosion include bacteria in the mouth, and medical problems such as heartburn, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), acid reflux, and dry mouth syndrome.
Acid softens tooth enamel, meaning that when your patient brushes his or her teeth, the softened enamel can be gradually worn away, gradually changing the shape, texture, and appearance of the tooth. Signs of acid erosion include:
- Sensitivity to sweets, and to hot and cold temperatures
- Discoloration (yellowing of the teeth)
- Cracks and chips
- Severe or painful sensitivity (in the later stages of acid erosion)
- Cupping, or indentations which appear on the surface of the teeth
- Thin or discolored enamel
- A history of tooth decay, notwithstanding excellent at-home care and preventive treatments
When you attend our courses, Dr. Jason C. Campbell will provide instruction on how to manage and prevent acid erosion. The treatment you provide to your patients will depend on the severity of the problem. In some cases, dental bonding can be used to protect the tooth and improve the appearance of your patients’ smile. If there is significant enamel loss, you may recommend a dental crown to protect the tooth from further decay.
Other preventive options you can recommend include:
- Reducing how often your patient consumes acidic foods and drinks
- Using a straw placed towards the back of the mouth when consuming acidic drinks
- Avoiding swishing acidic drinks in the mouth
- Waiting as long as possible to brush your teeth after consuming acidic foods and drinks
- Use of acid-reducing medications
- Frequent use of baking soda toothpaste with fluoride
- Using a fluoride prescription nightly as directed
For more information, and to register for courses at Advanced Prosthetics Institute, please contact our office today.
